Chelsea Legend Ivanovic Mourns Loss of Cousin Dejan Milovanovic
· YEN.com.gh News · Join- Chelsea icon Branislav Ivanovic mourns cousin Dejan Milovanovic, who tragically passed away at 41 during a veterans’ match
- Milovanovic scored his final career goal moments before collapsing on the field, later suffering a fatal heart attack
- Tributes pour in from fans and clubs alike, with Red Star Belgrade and the Serbian Veterans League honoring the midfielder’s legacy
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Chelsea icon Branislav Ivanovic is grieving the sudden death of his cousin, Dejan Milovanovic, the former Serbia international who tragically passed away during a veterans’ football match on Tuesday, September 16.
The 41-year-old collapsed on the field just before taking a corner for the Red Star Belgrade legends team.
Source: Getty Images
Eyewitnesses reported that Milovanovic received immediate medical attention and was briefly revived before being rushed to the hospital, where he suffered a second, fatal heart attack.
According to GBC News, earlier in the match against PKB Korporacija, Milovanovic had scored, unknowingly marking the final goal of his career.
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Dejan Milovanovic: Serbian football legend remembered
Milovanovic was a celebrated figure in Serbian football, known as one of Red Star Belgrade’s standout players of the 2000s.
According to The Sun, throughout his career, he captained the club and amassed seven major honours, including three Serbian SuperLiga titles and four domestic cups.
His success also extended abroad, as he won Ligue 2 with RC Lens in the 2008-09 season and had stints with Panionios in Greece and Vozdovac in Serbia, retiring in 2014.
Coming from a footballing family, Milovanovic followed in the footsteps of his father, Djordje, also a former Red Star midfielder.
His cousin, Branislav Ivanovic, enjoyed a celebrated nine-year tenure at Chelsea, making this loss deeply personal for the former defender.
Source: Getty Images
Dejan Milovanovic's death: Tributes pour in
In the wake of his passing, the Serbian Veterans League announced the postponement of all upcoming matches.
Red Star Belgrade also paid tribute, with Bosko Durovski, president of the club’s Veterans’ Section, highlighting Milovanovic’s lifelong dedication to the team.
“Dejan was more than a footballer. From progressing through all youth levels to stepping onto the professional stage in the red-and-white jersey, he left an indelible mark with his skill, fighting spirit, and charisma,” Durovski said.
Meanwhile fans also took to social media to honor Dejan Milovanovic, flooding platforms with heartfelt messages and emotional tributes.
Some also reflected on recent heartbreaking losses in football, including Liverpool’s Diogo Jota earlier this year, highlighting how the sport continues to mourn its beloved talents.
Many recalled Milovanovic's skill and charisma on the pitch, praising him as one of Serbia’s finest midfielders.
Some wrote about personal memories, describing him as an inspiration to young footballers, while others expressed shock and grief at the sudden loss.
@Markopetro:
“I can’t believe Dejan is gone. One of the greatest midfielders Serbia has ever seen. Rest in peace, legend.''
@AnaJ:
“Heartbroken to hear this news. Milovanovic inspired so many of us with his skill and dedication. 2025 really tragic - Diogo Jota just recently and now Milo. #RIPDejan”
@NikolasM:
“A true Red Star hero. His legacy on and off the pitch will never be forgotten. Sending prayers to his family.''
Petr Cech divorces wife
In an earlier report, YEN.com.gh covered the personal struggles of another Chelsea legend, goalkeeper Petr Cech, following his divorce.
This heartbreaking news adds to a difficult period for Chelsea fans, as the community mourns and reflects on the lives of its beloved stars, both past and present.
Source: YEN.com.gh